Postdoctoral Research Associate

The Baars group (https://baarslab.wordpress.ncsu.edu) at NC State University invites applications for a Postdoctoral position. We use new analytical approaches in a biological context to profile and characterize biologically secreted metabolites that are triggered by abiotic and biotic interactions in the environment.

This position will focus on molecular controls on metal limitation and toxicity via secreted metal chelating metabolites (the ‘chelome’) in soil and freshwater. There are almost no measurements of biogenic chelators in the field because of the technical challenge to analyze these compounds at trace-concentrations in the extremely complex soil matrix. There is an urgent need for direct measurements of the concentrations, structures, and chemistries of secreted biogenic chelators in soil and freshwater to understand the extent of limitation of plant productivity and microbial activity by iron and other required or toxic metals.

The first goal of this position will be the implementation of a new analytical platform to analyze soil and freshwater samples for biogenic metal chelators and provide answers to these questions under environmentally relevant conditions. The instrumental approach utilizes recently published methods based on the sensitivity and separation power of high-resolution LC-MS and LC-

ICPMS

. Ancillary analyses, for example by electrochemistry, can also be performed. Further projects can involve controlled cultures with microorganisms and plants, isolation and chemical characterization of new secondary metabolites, the development of methods for imaging mass spectrometry, and system-wide exometabolomics.

Apart from the direct interest for agriculture and human health (nutrition, toxic metal uptake, and sequestration), the results will provide insight into metal controls on terrestrial carbon and nitrogen fixation.

Other Work/Responsibilities

The postdoc will publish and present results in international peer-reviewed journals and at scientific meetings and actively seek and submit proposals to funding agencies as opportunities become available for postdoctoral fellowships. The responsibilities also involve guidance to undergraduate and graduate students in the laboratory.

Minimum Experience/Education

Ph.D. or equivalent doctorate (e.g., M.D., D.V.M., Sc.D.) in appropriate field awarded no more than five (5) years from initial date of postdoctoral appointment.

The ideal candidate will combine strong skills in instrumental analysis with prior experience in any of the following fields: microbiology, microbiome research, metals in biology, biogeochemistry, metabolomics, natural products research or related areas.

Required License or Certification

N/A

Special Instructions

The position will be available as early as July 2018 for up to three years based on annual performance evaluation. Formal applications will include a Cover Letter, CV, and contact information for three references.

Job Open Date

04/24/2018

Must Be Open Until

Positions will be posted until 5:00 PM ET on this date. Positions remaining posted after this date are still accepting applications but may close at any time.

06/01/2018

Is this position partially or fully funded on ARRA stimulus monies?

No

Proposed Hire Date

07/02/2018

AA/EOE

NC State University is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, national origin, religion, sex, gender identity, age, sexual orientation, genetic information, status as an individual with a disability, or status as a protected veteran.

Final candidates are subject to criminal & sex offender background checks. Some vacancies also require credit or motor vehicle checks. If highest degree is from an institution outside of the U.S., final candidates are required to have their degree verified at www.wes.org

. Degree must be obtained prior to start date.

NC State University participates in E-Verify. Federal law requires all employers to verify the identity and employment eligibility of all persons hired to work in the United States.

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